Sudbury New Democrat Robert McCarthy is backing northern Manitoba MP Niki Ashton in the leadership race, but says many others in the party are surprised that he is not backing his fellow northerner.

"But that being said I don't feel pressured into supporting Charlie, because I am unflinching and unwavering," says the 30-year-old.

McCarthy says he agrees with Ashton's policies, but also feels she is the best bet out of the four to be prime minister one day.

"Principles lead to power," he says. "In the 2015 election, we allowed the Justin Trudeau Liberals to outflank us on the left. And I feel Niki Ashton is the best candidate to make sure that doesn't happen."